Jang Bogo

Korean maritime pioneer who transformed East Asian trade networks

Jang Bogo (787-841 CE), known as 'King of the Ocean', revolutionized maritime trade across East Asia during the Unified Silla period. Born to a peasant family in modern-day South Jeolla Province, he challenged rigid social hierarchies by establishing Cheonghaejin (清海鎮), a semi-autonomous maritime base that controlled sea routes between Korea, China, and Japan.

His fleet of 10,000 sailors dominated:

Created first regulated international shipping lanes
Standardized tariff systems
Pioneered naval defense against pirate threats

Jang's diplomatic acumen bridged Tang China and Heian Japan through cultural exchange programs decades before Marco Polo's travels. Tragically murdered in political upheaval, his legacy survives through coastal temples still venerated by modern fishermen.

Literary Appearances

No literary records found

Cinematic Appearances

No cinematic records found

←Previous Back to Home Next→